2003 Caterham 7 vs. 2010 Volvo S40
To start off, 2010 Volvo S40 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2010 Volvo S40. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2010 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volvo S40 weights approximately 979 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
Because 2003 Caterham 7 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Volvo S40, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2010 Volvo S40 (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (210 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2010 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Caterham 7 | 2010 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Caterham | Volvo |
Model | 7 | S40 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1469 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4475 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1453 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2639 mm |